Deadline for flood assistance debit card program is September 30

Having successfully distributed almost $70 million to flood-affected Albertans, the flood assistance debit card program will wrap up September 30.

The Redford government created the flood assistance payment program to help residents cover extraordinary costs from having to evacuate a primary residence. Funding could be used for immediate housing needs and day-to-day purchases, limiting out of pocket expenses. Over 40,000 payments have been distributed as debit cards or cheques.

Because there are now longer-term supports available to help Albertans rebuild, the emergency payment program is ending.

“Many Albertans were displaced by the flood very quickly. We needed to provide immediate supports and believe that we’ve met that initial need. Now our focus shifts to working closely with municipalities to ensure Albertans have the necessary long-term supports to rebuild their homes and communities.”

- Dave Hancock, Minister of Human Services

Albertans who believe they qualify for the flood assistance payment have until 4 p.m. on September 30 to visit an Alberta Works office to apply for a payment.

Eligible Albertans requiring emergency benefits will continue to be able to access supports through the Income Support program.

Those who were issued an evacuation order, and unable to return to their primary residence for a minimum of seven days qualify for flood assistance payments ($1,250 per adult and $500 per child). The program began on June 27.

Albertans with flood damage can still apply for disaster recovery assistance to repair their homes or businesses by contacting the 2013 Disaster Recovery Program in person at an office in Calgary, High River or Medicine Hat, or by downloading an application from alberta.ca. Anyone with questions about the DRP can phone 1-888-671-1111 to speak with a representative.